Jason Kidd Interview
The Knicks new backcourt addition is an NBA champion and 10-time All-Star embarking on a new challenge in the big city. Jason Kidd has displayed a knack for flourishing in different environments next to a variety of teammates with diverse skill sets.
In the early Dallas days, Kidd was one of the ?Three J?s? in the Jim Jackson and Jamal Mashburn trio. Five years later, the California standout formed a strong group in New Jersey with Kenyon Martin and Richard Jefferson. Kidd?s latest stop featured a talented crew, including Dirk Nowitzki, Tyson Chandler, and Jason Terry just to name a few of the stars on the Mavericks 2010-11 title team.
The 39-year old has seen it all throughout his storied career and he is eager to jump on the court with the new cast assembled in New York.
?The core of the team when you look at our frontline and you talk about Tyson in the middle, Amar?e [Stoudemire], and Carmelo [Anthony], you are talking about guys who are very athletic that understand what it takes to win and it?s going to be a lot of fun to be out on the floor with those guys,? Kidd said.
Another crafty veteran point guard, Steve Nash also changed zip codes this offseason. Nash and Kidd have drawn comparisons over the last decade and the new Knicks distributor witnessed the success of the Nash-Stoudemire duo in Phoenix.
?With Amar?e, I hope I can be like a Nash to be able to get him the ball where he likes it to be successful. Make it where he doesn?t have to work as hard, easy layups, catch and shoot where he likes it,? Kidd explained.
Speaking like a true point guard, Kidd assessed the Knicks leading scorer and how he can make life easier for Anthony in 2012-13.
?Melo is one of the top five players in the world,? Kidd smiled. ?For me it?s to get him touches that put the ball in the basket, so he doesn?t have to work so hard. He?s a guy that understands how to play and also understands how to win.?
Kidd is well aware of one player on the current New York Roster. Chandler suited up with the Mavericks in one magical championship season, joining forces with Kidd to topple the Heat in 2011.
The big man made quite an impression on Kidd during their time together in Big D, ?He brings a lot to the table, a lot of energy. He?s a consistent player that?s going to talk and keep guys motivated and with that, he is going to run the floor, finish above the rim, get a lot of rebounds and blocked shots, so I?m happy to be back with Tyson.?
Kidd is not only excited about the opportunity to unite a team featuring young and talented players such as Anthony, Stoudemire, and Chandler but the chance to make noise in the Eastern Conference on an experienced crew focused on a title.
?I think we have a team that is built with some athletes but some older guys that understand what it takes to be successful, so the sky is the limit,? Kidd stated.
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